Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between sealcoating, and resurfacing of an asphalt driveway?

Sealcoating is a protective, paint like substance, while resurfacing is installing a new layer of asphalt (usually 1”-2.5”) atop of the existing driveway.

How long should an asphalt, concrete, or brick paver driveway last?

Typically, a well installed driveway of any material (with proper care, and maintenance) should last 20+ years before any major repairs are necessary.

Tree roots have caused my concrete, asphalt, or brick paver driveway, or patio to crack. If the roots are cut, will the tree be hurt?

We cut roots on a daily basis, and have yet to hurt, or kill a tree. However, there is no guarantee on this.

What is the standard thickness of asphalt, or concrete driveways?

There is no legal standard, or code for installing new driveways, walkways, or patios on private property, and there are many different methods, techniques, and materials at a contractors disposal.

Do I have to pull a permit to install my new driveway, walkway, or patio?

If you already have a county/city apron (15’ of driveway which connects to a publicly maintained street), and its dimensions remain the same, no permits are needed other than HOA approval (if applicable).

My driveway is too narrow where it meets the street... can it be expanded?

Although this is a common problem, since this portion of the driveway is actually the city/county’s property (aka: the apron)… a permit must be pulled.

Is the weather too hot in Summer to pave my asphalt driveway?

No, unlike concrete, high temperatures allow us more time to finish the asphalt surface.

Is the weather too hot in Summer to pour my concrete driveway, or patio?

Concrete cannot be poured during freezing temperatures, but some asphalt projects can be done.

Which should I do first: a new concrete/stone walkway, or a new asphalt/concrete/stone driveway?

Most times, the driveway should be the final project to be completed when many home projects happen simultaneously.

Is it necessary to excavate my entire driveway in preperation for repaving, or can a new layer be added?

Most asphalt driveways can be resurfaced (new layer), but if the existing driveway is very unlevel, cracked, or is a concrete driveway… then complete excavation is required.

Will my asphalt driveway last longer if we excavate the entire driveway before repaving?

Not necessarily… most driveways last longer if the existing asphalt driveway can be utilized as a base.

What is the longest lasting material for driveways?

Asphalt, as it is impervious to ice melt chemicals, and salt in winter months, whereas concrete is extremely vulnerable.

What is the price difference between asphalt, concrete, and brick?

In general, concrete is 2-3 times the price of asphalt. Brick is much higher still, and dependent upon choice of brick.

Do I have to sealcoat my asphalt driveway every year?

Although asphalt does require sealcoating with an asphalt based sealer… bi-yearly is usually recommended.

If I resurface my asphalt driveway (add a layer), will it be too high at the garage, and walkways?

Joints at the garage, and walkways are excavated to avoid trip hazards. Excavation also aids in maintaining positive water drainage away from garage.

If I resurface my asphalt driveway (add a layer), will it be too high along the grassline?

Usually, the new layer of asphalt will add 2” of height to the driveway along the grass line. A 45 deg beveled edge will be installed. It is recommended that dirt is used to backfill the edges for stabilization.

How long before I can use my asphalt, concrete, or block driveway after it is installed?

Usually the driveway can be used in 24-72 hours unless rare cirumstances occur.

How long does it take my concrete, or asphalt driveway to cure?

Asphalt driveways require up to 2 years to fully cure, during which time care must be taken during hot temperatures as not to mark the surface. Concrete is usually cured within 6 months.

I have a side entrance garage, or a circular asphalt driveway… will my tires mark the new asphalt?

Yes, especially during hot temperatures over the curing period (2 years). Fortunately, tire marks are temporary.

Can I get my concrete, or asphalt driveway in any color other than black?

Color additives are available for both mediums, but are expensive, sometimes detrimental, and not recommended for driveways.

Why dosen't my new driveway look as smooth as my neighbors driveway?

Driveways that have been sealcoated repeatedly with a water based sealer can have a texture similar to sandpaper (not healthy). A properly installed asphalt driveway will be quite grainy in comparison.

Asphalt gets its black color from the adhesive, asphaltic tar used in the manufacturing process. As the tar degrades, the surface of the driveway will revert to the natural color of the stone in the mix, which is usually gray.

Why is the surface of my new asphalt driveway not completely uniform in texture?

Asphalt is made up of sand, rock, and tar. When tar, or sand clump together, a smooth area is produced on the surface. When rock gathers, a rough area is produced on the surface. Like a countertop, asphalt is a natural stone product, subject to the same limitations, and inconsistencies.

My asphalt, or concrete driveway has some broken areas, or potholes. Should I repair these areas, or wait to redo the entire driveway?

It depends on how long you plan to keep the property, and how much is in your budget. Just be mindful that if left in disrepair over a bad winter, a small, relatively cheap fix can become a very expensive project in short time.

My concrete, asphalt, or brick driveway has a pothole, and needs a patch… will it blend in?

No… but asphalt is the best medium for this because it can be sealcoated to maintain a uniform color between the patch/repair, and the existing surface, but texture will always be different.

Which is more environmentally conscious: asphalt, concrete, or brick pavers?

All materials are 100% recyclable. EPA regulations have forced great “eco friendly” strides in this industry.

I have gotten many quotes on my driveway, walkway, or patio with differing opinions on construction, and wide ranging pricing… which contractor is the correct choice?

This is by far the most complicated question we are asked. There is no legal standard for construction, and many different materials, and techniques are available to a contractor. Careful dissection of all contracts should be performed, and nothing should be taken for granted. Ultimately, you should choose the contractor who is responsive to communication… licensed, and insured… and with whom you feel comfortable with. Some projects can be very expensive, so be honest with yourself about what is within your budget. Choosing the lowest priced contractor on an expensive project vs. a more reasonable priced contractor for a lesser project is setting yourself up for disappointment.